English is about more than books. It's about bringing words to life.

The Department of English prepares graduates who are passionate about writing stories, reading literature, and teaching English with a rich, diverse understanding of the world. You’ll be challenged to discern what it means to be a Christian reader and writer in a world searching
for strong, wise voices.

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An English Program that goes Beyond the Classroom

We know that preparing for a career is more than sitting in a classroom. Your dynamic education involves experienced faculty, study abroad options, in-house publications, and internship opportunities—all offered within a Christian learning environment. It’s about bringing the beauty of literature and the craft of writing to life. It’s learning about the world around you as we study literature, writing, and journalism. It’s about experiencing the stories, traditions, and diversity of the world firsthand to grow in our understanding of others and ourselves. It’s about taking our faith in Christ and integrating it into everything we learn, into everything we do, so you can accomplish incredible things—in your career, in your community, and in your world.

95% Percentage of Communication Arts and Literature majors who graduate in 4 years or fewer

0full-time faculty in the department

Program Highlights

Study abroad

Engage students, writers, and readers in England, Kenya, Japan, Australia, or Egypt through studying abroad, and explore off-campus programs in Washington, D.C., New York City, and Los Angeles.

Faculty mentors

Build one-on-one relationships with professors who partner with and encourage you to pursue your professional goals and calling. We’re all practicing, published writers ourselves—passionate about providing valuable insights and feedback on your writing process.

Gain valuable skills

Journalism students get real-world experience writing news and feature stories for area community newspapers. Funded summer internships are available for outstanding students at places like the Minneapolis Star Tribune, St. Paul Pioneer Press, Kansas City Star, Christianity Today, and the Miami Herald. Students also learn the ropes interning with Redleaf Press, Believers Press, Bethany House Publishers, Coffee House Press, and more.

First-hand learning

Shakespeare students attend performances at the Guthrie Theater as well as at smaller venues throughout the Twin Cities before performing their own scenes in class. Juvenile Literature students read a book and correspond by email with their local, eighth grade “reading buddies” to test adolescent literacy theories in the real world.

Versatile career preparation

What can you do with your English major? The answers are endless. But we’re most proud that our students are equipped to perceive, collaborate, and succeed in whatever they choose to do.

Christian worldview

We strive to integrate faith and learning by approaching our study through the eyes of faith. Your rich interaction with literature and writing, taught by outstanding Christian professors, will fuel your growth as a Christian and a scholar.

Literature changed who I was, allowed me to look at the world in a new way, to become a more curious person. Faith-learning integration at Bethel helped prepare me to link my faith with my work.

Amy Williams
'07
Current job: Major Gifts Officer at Ecumen

For me, journalism meant becoming a reporter, but God brought me into ministry. I quickly learned that good writing transcends vocation. Creative storytelling is key anywhere. Studying journalism helped me find my voice and bring good writing to any calling.

Monique Kleinhuizen
'08
Current job: Communications Strategist at Bethel University

What can I do with an English degree?

English students prepare for professional careers in a variety of industries and graduate programs ranging from education to journalism to ministry.

The Royal Report is the outlet for our Journalism students exploring writing, photography, and video content. The Medium site features students' story assignments and captivating images. The Royal Report Youtube channel features short vignettes and stories that provide a deeper look into the people and issues at Bethel.